Manchester United youngster JJ Gabriel could finalise a deal to depart the club within the next 48 hours.
Gabriel marks his 16th birthday on Tuesday and he possesses an EU passport, meaning he'll be permitted to join a European Union club next week, assuming FIFA grants approval for the transfer, given their stringent regulations governing international moves for footballers under 18.
While Gabriel's representatives will need to satisfy certain criteria to secure a departure from United, it's believed they wouldn't have pursued an exit without confidence in navigating the bureaucratic hurdles.
United's attempts to keep the teenager
United remain optimistic about finding a solution to retain Gabriel at the club. United officials were shocked when Gabriel's camp requested a departure last month and have tried to rescue the situation.
Gabriel last attended training at Carrington more than a fortnight ago, though he's maintained his fitness by working individually with a private coach in Castelldefels, Barcelona.
The teenager and his family have been frequent visitors to Barcelona. Gabriel has worked with local specialist coaches during his stays there, while also occasionally bringing a private coach from Manchester to join him.
Interest from Barcelona and Real Madrid
While Gabriel has been training in Barcelona, discussions have taken place with the Catalan giants, alongside Real Madrid.
Madrid have put considerable effort into positioning themselves to secure Gabriel's signature, though they're mindful of how delicately the situation must be managed, considering FIFA's rigid rules regarding U18 signings.
United are also reportedly considering legal action against any party who may negotiate and facilitate the England youth international's exit from Old Trafford.
Barcelona's stance on the youngster
Barcelona's sporting director Deco recently dismissed speculation about Gabriel, stating: "There's nothing to say about this boy. It's normal we always have players linked with us."
"There's a huge market for that, even when they are young. We are not interested in any player in his situation. I'm not sure what's happening, and if he's still a Manchester United player."
"We are not involved in that. First of all, we need to understand how the situation is before we try to do something. To speak about young, teenage players, it is not our business."
Nevertheless, Barcelona are keen on securing Gabriel's signature, with the youngster having been on their watchlist for several years.
